May 16, 2018- The Blue Angels will perform above the Severn River, Tuesday, May 22, 2018 and Wednesday, May 23, at 2 p.m. as part of the Naval Academy’s Commissioning Week. The Tuesday event is a practice day. The Wednesday event is the performance day. Viewing of these events is free and open to the public.

The Blue Angels are the U.S. #Navy’s Flight Demonstration Squadron and fly a team of six Navy #F/A-18 Hornets. Two Naval Academy graduates are part of the Blue Angels team. Lt. Andre Webb is a graduate of the Class of 2008 and will be the show’s narrator and Cmdr. Matt Kaslik, Class of 1995, is the team’s executive officer.

The Blue Angels flight demonstration exhibits the choreographed refinements of Navy-trained flying skills. The audience will see the graceful maneuvers of the four-jet Diamond formation, in concert with the fast-paced, high-performance maneuvers of the two Solo pilots. The team concludes the demonstration with a performance of maneuvers together in the well-known Delta formation. The team will perform a variety of high-speed, aerobatic, precision-maneuvers during their approximately 45-minute long, narrated air show.

Tuesday, May 22, the Blue Angels will perform circle and arrival maneuvers between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. followed by a rehearsal of their flight demonstration between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m.

Wednesday, May 23, the Blue Angels performance and flight demonstration will begin at 2 p.m. Spectators in the Ingram Field viewing areas will be able to hear the show’s narration. Spectators in other viewing areas can tune-in to WNAV radio on 1430AM and 99.9FM to hear the broadcast of the narration.

Pedestrians

Pedestrians are invited to walk through USNA Gates 1, 3 or 8. All persons 18 years of age or older are required to present a valid Government-issued photo ID for entry into the Naval Academy and all personnel and vehicles are subject to search.

Guests are permitted to bring daypacks, diaper bags, camera cases, and purses. Larger bags and large coolers are prohibited. Also, they are not needed, as the demonstration is about 1 hour long. Delays at security are exacerbated by checking multiple and large bags and purses. Please minimize what you bring onto the yard for this reason. Oftentimes, people with no bags will be separated into a separate, much faster moving line. All bags are subject to search; weapons and alcoholic beverages are prohibited.

Car Drivers

Drivers without Department of Defense ID cards or Midshipmen Parents Passes are not permitted on the Naval Academy grounds. Vehicle access may be further restricted to staff and residents during limited time frames in support of special Commissioning Week events; notice will be promulgated separately.

Handicapped visitors may bring vehicles onto #USNA with handicapped plates or placards and they must be present in the vehicle; vehicles will be searched before access is granted.

Parking is available at the blue side of the Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium for a $5 fee for cars, $10 for RVs. There is a free daily shuttle between the stadium and the academy; shuttle buses are not wheelchair accessible.

During the Blue Angels flight rehearsal May 22, and the flight demonstration May 23, the only drop-off and pick-up point for the shuttle bus on the grounds of the academy will be in front of Alumni Hall from 11 a.m. until 6 p.m.

Naval Academy Gates 1 and 3 will be closed to vehicular traffic (except for emergency vehicles) Tuesday, May 22 and Wednesday, May 23 from 11 a.m. until the completion of the flight demonstration rehearsal (approximately 4 p.m.). During these times, Gate 8 will be open only to USNA residents, staff and faculty, and shuttle buses. Gates 1, 3 and 8 will remain open for pedestrian access. Please note that all times are approximate and dependent upon weather.

Traffic, Parking and General Rules:

Parking on the Yard is very limited. Parking restrictions are strictly enforced in red curb zones. Only official vehicles may park by white curbing. Speed limit on USNA is 15mph or as posted. All traffic must yield to midshipmen marching in formation and pedestrians in crosswalks. Seat belt usage is required at the Naval Academy. Drivers may not use a cell phone unless the vehicle is safely parked or the driver is using a hands-free device. Only service animals may be brought on Academy grounds during Commissioning Week. Possession and consumption of alcohol on Academy grounds is prohibited, except at USNA-sponsored events. Picnicking on the Naval Academy’s ceremonial grounds is prohibited. The USNA Cemetery located on Hospital Point should not be used as a transit or viewing area for Commissioning Week events.

Bridge and Water Restrictions:

The Naval Academy Police, Maryland State Police, U.S. Coast Guard and the Natural Resources Police will enforce the following vehicular and marine safety zones, and boating traffic restrictions during practices and performances by the Blue Angels:

Naval Academy Bridge (Md. Rt. 450) Closures:

The Naval Academy Bridge (Md. Rt. 450) will be closed to all vehicular and pedestrian traffic at the times listed below. Vehicles entering and leaving Annapolis should use Rowe Boulevard or other alternate routes.

*** In the event of inclement weather Tuesday, May 22, the Naval Academy Bridge (Md. Rt. 450) will also close from 10:45 a.m. until 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 23.

Tuesday and Wednesday, Gate 8 will remain open to staff, faculty, residents, and high priority case-by-case delivery vehicular traffic. Gates 1 and 3 will remain open for pedestrian traffic, but will be closed to vehicular traffic.

Severn River: Marine Restrictions:
At the times listed below, boat traffic and anchoring will be restricted from the following areas on the Severn River and its tributaries. The southern boundary will be established by Naval Academy Yard Patrol craft, which will mark a line drawn from the quick flashing light at the south end of the Naval Academy seawall to Greenbury Point.

The northern boundary is marked by the U.S. Rt. 50 Severn River Bridge. Both boundaries will be patrolled by the Coast Guard, Department of Natural Resources Police, Coast Guard Auxiliary and Annapolis Police and Fire Rescue boats.

Mariners are urged to transit the area with caution while the Naval Academy Yard Patrol craft are anchored in position. The portion of the Severn River defined by the boundaries below will be closed to all boating traffic during the times listed below.

Severn River: Marine Restrictions:

During periods of restricted boating on the Severn, shoreline residents’ boats moored to a permanent dock in the affected area may remain secured to their docks. However, by order of the commander, 5th Coast Guard District, a special local regulation has been issued which closes the river to all other boats — either underway, anchored or on mooring buoys — during practices and performances by the Blue Angels. (Please call Coast Guard Activities Baltimore at (410) 576-2693 for additional details.)

Photo courtesy Prop Talk. Learn more about anchoring your boat to watch the show here.

To my mind, the Blue Angels Commissioning Week practices and Wednesday performance are two of the best days of the year in Annapolis. But maneuvering through traffic, figuring out where and how to watch the show and of course, finding parking, can be confusing if you are visiting or new to the area. Here’s a primer that might help you out. As always, please leave questions or helpful advice in the comments: this is simply a hastily-written, top-line How To.

What Is It?

The United States Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, also called The Blue Angels, was founded 72 years ago, in March 1946, as a way to showcase naval aviation and naval air power, as well as to boost morale. Since that time, the team’s performances have become a great source of pride, not only for the Navy and Marine Corp, but for anyone who turns out to marvel at the pilots’ spectacular skill and bravado. The Blue Angels visit Annapolis during Commissioning Week. Typically, they practice on Tuesday, perform on Wednesday and give one quick, loud, thrilling flyover of the stadium during the graduation ceremony on Friday.

What Does This Mean for Me?

The Naval Academy Bridge that connects downtown Annapolis to Route 2/Arnold is closed during practice and performance. This means you will face increased traffic along Prince George, Rowe Boulevard, Annapolis Street and Taylor Avenue. When I say increased, what I mean is nearly standstill. You may also find difficulty parking in the downtown and West Annapolis areas. When I say difficulty parking, I mean you will probably have to park blocks further away than you are used to. You will find long lines for security at Gate 8 and the Main Gate. What I mean is from the security booth all the way to 450 and down Prince George.

Where is the Best Place to Watch the Practice and Performance?

Everyone as a favorite place to watch, but the core of the show is on the Severn River, in front of the Academy. Ground Zero is on the Academy yard in the Superintendent’s Tent near the Sailing Center/Dewey Field. The tent and immediate area is closed off for private parties on Performance Day. Anywhere close to the river is ideal, including:

Note you can see the demonstration, which is obviously aerial, from many points around town, but there is nothing like getting close to the action.

Where Should I Park?

First, it important to keep in mind that the USNA bridge may be closed early in the day (usually around 10:45-11:00, for inclement weather issues) and definitely at 1:45 pm to around 3:00 pm for the show. The Route 50 bridge will be slow as drivers gawk at the performance. This is very important to take into consideration when making your plans.

Let’s take this question according to location:

If you want to watch the show on the Route 2 side of the bridge (i.e. Grassy Knoll, Jonas Green Park, WW2 Memorial areas), you can arrive ridiculously early and hope for a spot in the Jonas Green Park or (better plan) park parallel to the road all the way up Route 2/450. You cannot park on or near the bridge.

Pros: Free, easy to park, easy to exit, great view.

Cons: have to arrive early (11:30-12:00)

If you want to watch the show from NSA Annapolis Marina, you can park by the Commissary and walk down to the marina, or you can try to park at NSA or the marina, which will be crowded. If this is your plan, keep in mind crowds, security checkpoints and the bridge closing. I would plan to arrive by 12:30.

Cons: access, security checkpoint means if you don’t have a DOD sticker you will have to park at the Commissary and walk. Difficult to exit.

If you want to watch the show from Arundel Estates, there is a small cul de sac parking lot at the end of the road. Do not park along that road, as it is for residents. You won’t be ticketed, but its rude. The homes are technically owned by Lincoln Housing, but are de facto base housing and you should keep in mind that you are in someone’s community. You can also park in West Annapolis and easily walk through Shiley Park to this location. Once you arrive, head toward the water, away from the playground.

Cons: Your kids will want to play in the water or on the playground (not necessarily a con). Difficult Exit.

If you want to watch the show from Hospital Point/the Yard, you can park in West Annapolis on Annapolis Street or Melvin Avenue, in downtown Annapolis at Hillman Garage or at USNA Stadium and walk or take the $5 shuttle. I don’t recommend downtown parking because it is ridiculously crowded. You can plan for this by arriving around 10am and making a day of it. I also don’t recommend the shuttle (unless you are arriving before 11:30), because the distance is about 1/2 mile and you can walk it faster than you could ever shuttle it.

Pros: Free. Best public view in the area. Plenty of space to move around. Nice crowds, great vibe. Kona Hawaiian ice truck.

Cons: nearly impossible to enter/exit/park in a car, even with DOD sticker. Security checkpoints mean long lines of 1/2 hour to 45 minutes. To avoid these lines, arrive around 12:30.

What Should I Bring?

Most everyone packs snacks, plenty of liquids and a picnic blanket or chairs. Many also bring footballs, frisbees, etc. But you don’t have to worry about these items. The show is at 2 pm–after lunch and before dinner. It’s only an hour. And you have to pack all that with you, not to mention wait in line for security to check every single bag of chips (if you are going onto the yard). Its just a great fun, relaxed day for the entire family, so dress casual, relax, and enjoy. Some groups do make a themed party day or a picnic of it, which is always fun. That of course changes the following list of what to bring:

Water–its usually hot, and by the time you arrive, park, watch the show and leave, you are in it for about 3 hours.

Money for snacks (i.e. the Kona truck), usually $5-$10 per person

Camera (check your batteries and memory card)

Phone (check your battery and available storage space)

Sunscreen

Beach blanket (if the grounds aren’t wet).

Life jackets should be worn at all times if you are anchoring

Noise cancelling headphones for little ones or sensitive ears. Expect this show to be low to the river and VERY loud

Summary:

The Blue Angels Demonstration Day is among the best of events for the city of Annapolis. While this event can cause crowds, it is nothing but positive. Many families take their children out of school for the event, so it is very family friendly. Even if the weather isn’t ideal, expect a fun-filled day that you won’t want to miss.

Tidal Basin is so out. Not fighting traffic, parking and crowds is so in! Here are five local cherry bloom alternatives, in order of our affection for them.

Pack a picnic and head to Historic London Town & Gardens in Edgewater. They have a stunning ancient cherry tree, plus short 1-or-so miles of meandering trails through bunches of tulips, daffodils, and other blooming gardens along the South River waterfront. The kiddos will enjoy the Sound and Sensory Garden, in fact you might not be able to drag them out of there. If you like London Town, you might also like Quiet Waters Park in Annapolis -its bigger, with multiple playgrounds. You trade intimate blooms for more space, I guess.

United States Naval Academy Take a stroll along the USNA grounds to find a number of blooming trees. We especially enjoy a stroll around Hospital Point, which features a stroller friendly walkway and is lined with gorgeous trees. The field itself is perfect for a picnic. Bring some balls or just let the kids run ’til they tucker out. Little ones will need to take care of the abrupt edge of the concrete along the water.

We absolutely love our country’s National Arboretum, a treasure that we think is not on the radar of many families. Located just outside of Washington DC, (conveniently near the closet Costco with a liquor store) this huge park is full of all sorts of Spring Blooms. Because the arboretum boasts impressive waterfront, rolling hills, stroller-friendly walking paths, short trails and a variety of interesting exhibits, I think it may actually be first in our hearts if not on this list. The only reason it isn’t is for that wicked U Turn you have to make off New York Avenue onto the service road. Parking is ample and free. Pet friendly. BYO food and drink.

Cherry Trees at the National Arboretum. Photo courtesy Wikipedia Commons

Centennial Park in Columbia, Maryland may be an ideal Cherry Bloom destination for suburban families: Plenty of parking, proximity to a large mall and many restaurants, and the fact that you can do your grocery shopping and see some spring beauty all in one trip make a visit a very attractive proposition. Columbia is about 40 minutes from Annapolis.

Meadowlark Botanical Garden, in Vienna, Virginia might be a drive, but we say its worth it, especially on a quiet Sunday morning when there isn’t much traffic. There is a small fee to enter the park, but plan to stay for a few hours and you won’t mind the $5 or so. Nearby is Reston Town Center, with a Whole Foods Market and other suburban shops, and on the way home is Tyson’s Corner, which I avoid like the plague but my daughter adores.

Where is your favorite place to view springtime blooms? Let me know in the comments- we are always curious to try new and exciting adventures!

If there is a better place in America than New York City for Christmas, I need to know about it. Yes, there are beautiful small towns lit up to light the way from ski slope to bar in the West, and there are cute little Santa sand castles in the South, but really, there’s nothing like an entire island lit up in a million different ways to get you into the holiday spirit.

If you are planning a trip to NYC this Christmas season, here are some things not to miss. A couple of tips: dress in layers and carry a bag in which to put all those layers. Be smart about carrying valuables. Bring tissues for runny noses. Eat. Be patient.

The Exploring

If you want to get in some steps, burn some of the calories you’ve been ingesting, or just see the sights at ground level, pack your walking shoes and hit the High Line. Running along the West Side (the sunset side along the Hudson) from Gansevoort Street in the Meatpacking District to West 34th Street, between 10th and 12th Avenues, the High Line is an elevated park that used to be railroad tracks. Other walks include a stroll from Times Square to Central Park and through SoHo.

The Windows

New York is famous for holiday displays in department store windows. These are easy to find with a stroll from Macy’s Herald Square (34th Street) over to Fifth Avenue and up to Central Park. En route you will find the shops around Rockefeller Center, Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman, Henri Bendel, Tiffany and Co. and over on Lexington, Bloomingdale’s. NYcurbed.com provides a handy map and a description of the different display themes. This plan allows for some fabulous shopping and the added plus of taking you off Broadway and out of Times Square (always crowded) as you walk through midtown.

The Lights

Nothing says holiday like a good lights display and New York knows just how to do it. One of the more famous displays is the Dyker Heights neighborhood of Brooklyn. Time Out New York magazine has a great guide for out-of-towners. When I lived in NYC, I would take the bus from Manhattan, an easy ride, and I still suggest this for transportation. A taxi will be extremely expensive, the subway drops you off several blocks away and parking your own car will be a nightmare. If the weather is mild, then, by all means, take the subway and enjoy the stroll. Do plan ahead by bringing comfortable shoes, because the lights are spread throughout the neighborhood–not just on one street. You might opt for a tour, but at about $50 per person this is an expensive option compared to free, and anyway, these tours sell out very quickly.

Other great options to view the Christmas lights are:

take a river cruise around the island of Manhattan

walk over the Brooklyn Bridge (bundle up!)

take a bus over to nearby neighborhoods in the Bronx or Queens

take a walk through Hell’s Kitchen under the lights of Fifth Avenue (or see above store displays, which are lit at night for even better viewing, without the crowds)

walk Park Avenue between 54th and 87th–there are plenty of bars and restaurants, or skip over to 3rd Avenue for even more.

warm up in the foyer of the shops at Columbus Circle (enter near Whole Foods Market). Also see the markets mentioned below.

The Christmas Markets

Nowhere in the world does a Christmas market like Europe, but New York is quickly making strides, in their own unique (albeit very commercial) way. The biggest and most developed market is the Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park. Enjoy shopping the stalls for local goods then grab some hot chocolate or enjoy a bit of time on the ice.

Other markets include:

Union Square

Vanderbilt Hall in Grand Central Station

Columbus Circle

Rockefeller Center has every holiday delight you could want: lights, sparkle, skating, shopping, and plenty of good cheer. No food or drinks worth your $$$ though. If you are desperate, try The Dean & DeLuca cafe or a tucked away pizza shop.

The Dancing

A classic and beloved holiday season performance is the Radio City Rockette’s Christmas Spectacular. This show particularly appeals to children, since it features plenty of seasonal characters and even live animals, but is equally endearing for adults. If you prefer the ballet, then you must see George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker performed by the New York City Ballet at Lincoln Center. One of my favorite Nutcracker performances is in Brighton Beach, Brooklyn, home to thousands of Russian immigrants. If you need your Nutcracker with a twist, you can have it served up just about any way you like, including with some hip-hop. Red Tricycle has a list of most of the local performances.

If you could do without this ubiquitous tradition, why not consider Isaac Mizrahi’s Peter and the Wolf at the Guggenheim (limited run), or a Broadway show such as Anastasia, the great story of Russia’s lost then rediscovered Tsarina.

Photo by TripSavvy

The Trees

What would the holiday season be without the tree? The most famous tree is of course in Rockefeller Center. But there are many others worth viewing.

The Music and Theater

What would the holidays be without music? Some of the best sounds to come out of Manhattan are found for free in subway terminals and on street corners. Other great performances can be found at Carnegie Hall, The Blue Note, where Chris Botti’s Holiday Residency showcases a suite of jazzy favorites, and Woody Allen and his jazz band at the Carlyle. If you prefer a theater performance, check out this post about family friendly events on the New York City Theater’s website.

The Skating

There are plenty of opportunities to skate for a reasonable price in New York. The most touristy is, of course, Rockefeller Center. It isn’t my favorite because it is located at concourse level, which means everyone at street level is looking down at your performance. On the other hand, you might catch a special skate performance by professional skaters here. Other locations include:

The Rink at the Winter Village in Bryant Park

The LeFrak Center, an indoor rink in Brooklyn

Sky Rink, an indoor rink at Chelsea Piers

Riverbank Rink on the West Side- I love this rink for its views over the Hudson to Jersey.

Wollman Rink in Central Park

There is so much to do in New York for the holidays, I could go on and on. If ever there was a good time to rent a carriage for a ride through Central Park, this is it. Have a hot chocolate at The Plaza before or after. Go to St. Patrick’s Cathedral or any other church you’ve ever wanted to visit for a holiday service. See the worlds largest Menorah in Brooklyn. Embrace your status as a tourist and get a picture in your Ugly Sweater at Top of the Rock, where you can get a meal ($$$) and a drink, or at the Empire State Building, lit especially for the holiday.

The Lobbies

There are few things better than walking the streets, all bundled up, with the wind blowing briskly off the river, and ducking into a favorite little spot for something to warm you up. Hotel lobbies are fantastic for this. I particularly love the Standard Hotel in the Meat Packing district (it has a tiny little ice rink), but also the St. Regis, the Plaza, and Bemelman’s at the Carlyle.

Well, suffice it to say, New York is a great city and I hope you have a wonderful time! That’s a lot of superlatives because I love New York that much!! If you have any questions or want to let us know your favorite places, please do comment here or on the Facebook page.

Gemma’s idea of a fine afternoon in Paris: 3 hours lost in the Galignani bookstore

As a voracious reader, I think that books might just be the ideal gift: they are a rendering of our affection for the recipient. Think about it: a book, wisely and carefully chosen, reflects just how well you know a person, how well you understand them, what you might hope for them, what you think they will or will not like.

My daughter is also a voracious reader. By this, I mean that like me she will read every sign, every label, every ad, every magazine cover, any word she can get her eyes on. We both read quick and dirty. By this I mean we are fast readers (for example, I read Diana Gabaldon’s 640-page Outlander in 2 days and I can tell you every detail in this incredibly detailed book) we immerse ourselves in the story. We linger on every word, every phrase; we ingest. We become a part of the story. We are perfectly content to while away an entire day with a good book, our minds and dreams carried away from wherever we are, like a leaf on the breeze.

So, if you have a young reader in the family, or if you are encouraging your young reader to read more, we thought we might compile a list of books that would make nice gifts this holiday season. These books are notable in that they are great for any gender, they are “clean” and generally speaking, they have something to offer in the way thinking about life in a new and fresh way. Gemma compiled and wrote this list, so keep in mind, these are the thoughts of a ten-year-old. She notes that they are not in any kind of order.

Sophie was found in a cello case floating on the English channel when she was only one year old. Orphaned by the shipwreck, Sophie swears that she remembers seeing her mother waving for help. Since there are no other female survivors of the wreck, this vision of her mother must be a dream. Although her guardian, Charles, tells Sophie it’s almost impossible, Sophie still believes her mother lives.

When the adoption agency threatens to take Sophie away, she and Charles head to Paris to find her mother with only the address of the cello maker, printed on the case. When Sophie finds a secret network of orphans in hiding on the rooftops, her chances of finding her mother seem to get even better. As Sophie and her friends race against time, hilarious and heartfelt moments and incidents occur.

I also read The Explorer and The Wolf Rider by Katherine Rundell. I found them in a bookstore in Paris. The Wolf Rider is amazing and I highly recommend it. So is The Explorer, which is about a group of kids who have to survive a plane crash into the Amazon. The children find a map, which leads them to a secret and to many great adventures.

2. Julie of the Wolvesby Jean George (author) and John Schoenherr (Illustrator)

Review by Emilie Coulter from Amazon.com:

Miyax, like many adolescents, is torn. But unlike most, her choices may determine whether she lives or dies. At 13, an orphan, and unhappily married, Miyax runs away from her husband’s parents’ home, hoping to reach San Francisco and her pen pal. But she becomes lost in the vast Alaskan tundra, with no food, no shelter, and no idea which is the way to safety. Now, more than ever, she must look hard at who she really is. Is she Miyax, Eskimo girl of the old ways? Or is she Julie (her “gussak”-white people-name), the modernized teenager who must mock the traditional customs? And when a pack of wolves begins to accept her into their community, Miyax must learn to think like a wolf as well. If she trusts her Eskimo instincts, will she stand a chance of surviving? John Schoenherr’s line drawings suggest rather than tell about the compelling experiences of a girl searching for answers in a bleak landscape that at first glance would seem to hold nothing. Fans of Jean Craighead George’s stunning, Newberry Medal-winning coming-of-age story won’t want to miss Julie (1994) and Julie’s Wolf Pack (1998).

This amazing book tells the tale of AnneMarie Johansen, a young girl in Nazi-occupied Denmark in World War 2. AnneMarie’s family takes in her best friend, a Jew, and attempts to rescue her by smuggling her across the sea disguised as AnneMarie’s sister, who died in the Resistance. When Ellen’s father loses an important package, AnneMarie must risk her life to return it to him. The package contains a handkerchief covered in a special formula that makes it so the dogs used to hunt for escaping Jews can’t smell them. Ultimately, this story is about good and evil and how even children can be courageous when they know that good must win.

Review by Amazon:

The evacuation of Jews from Nazi-held Denmark is one of the great untold stories of World War II. On September 29, 1943, word got out in Denmark that Jews were to be detained and then sent to the death camps. Within hours the Danish resistance, population and police arranged a small flotilla to herd 7,000 Jews to Sweden. Lois Lowry fictionalizes a true-story account to bring this courageous tale to life. She brings the experience to life through the eyes of 10-year-old Annemarie Johannesen, whose family harbors her best friend, Ellen Rosen, on the eve of the round-up and helps smuggles Ellen’s family out of the country.

Trapped in a hidden ice fortress for protection, Solveig, her brother the Crown Prince, her older sister and an army of boisterous warriors await news of their father, who is away at battle. But when no news is delivered, and treacherous activities begin to occur, the children begin to wonder if their friends could be traitors. Solveig and her siblings must choose their allies wisely. This book has suspense, fantastic descriptions of life in a medieval Nordic landscape, wonderful characters and plenty of opportunities for Solveig to prove her courage and strength. If you like Nordic mythology or tales of kingdoms and danger, you will like Icefall.

“One ring to rule them all, one ring to find them. One ring to bring them all and in the darkness bind them.”

Sauron, the dark lord, made a powerful ring that could decide the fate of the world. But when he lost it, the ring passed through many generations until Bilbo Baggins, wins it in an intense contest for life or death against an evil creature called Gollum.

When Bilbo realizes the ring’s potential to wreak havoc and evil, he gives it to his young nephew, Frodo, who sets off to the cracks of doom with his faithful friends to destroy the ring once and for all to foil Saurons dark plot. This timeless classic written by J. R.R. Tolkien will live on forever as one of the greatest books ever written.

This is the story of the story of Karana, a Native American girl living alone on the Island of Blue Dolphins. When a terrible tragedy strikes her tribe and many of the members, including Karana’s father, the Chief, die, a boat comes to rescue survivors. When Karana misses the boat, she is forced to find a way to live, to find food, clothe herself, and build a home on the beautiful island. This is a Newberry Award winning book that every 4th or 5th grader should be required to read. It is a classic.

These graphic novels use a mix of facts, humor and a clear grasp of the interesting facts and personalities that define moments in American history. One Dead Spy follows the real Nathan Hale, a schoolteacher turned spy in the American Revolution. The Donner Dinner Party tells the story of how the Donner Party attempted to cross the Continental Divide en route to California in the years of the Gold Rush. Alama All Stars showcases the larger-than-life men who barricaded a small fort against a large Mexican army. Each of these books reveals who lived, who died, who helped (or didn’t) and other well-researched exploits of American heroes. There are seven books in the Hazardous Tales series, and my brother and I love them all. The drawings are as good as the story. There are bibliographies at the end if you want to learn more.

This is an excellent book. Josef is a Jewish boy living in 1930s Nazi Germany. When he must join his mother and young sister to escape extermination in the concentration camps, he and his family board a ship for America. Isabel is a Cuban girl in 1994. When her family experiences the hunger, riots, and danger of life in her country, she and her family set out on a raft, also hoping to find safety in America. Mahmoud is a Syrian boy in 2015. With his country destroyed by war, he and his family begin a long trek to Europe. Each of these children will face dangers that children my age in America will never imagine as they try to find a safe place to live. This novel is action packed, and although you might wonder how these three characters from different times will relate to each other in the end, believe me, it all comes together in a way that helped me better understand what it means to simply want to find a home.

9. The Bronze Bow by Elizabeth George Speare

When Daniel bar Jamin sees his father executed by the Romans in New Testament era land of Israel, he devotes himself to avenge his father’s death. He joins a group of other young boys to spy on the Romans and to plot their demise. Daniel learns of the teachings of Jesus of Nazareth, but is turned off by the message of forgiveness, which leaves no room for his brooding hate. As Daniel lets his hate overcome his closest friendships, his love and even the needs of his own sister, who has struggles of her own, he heads toward disaster, only to learn in the end how to accept and understand love. This book is another Newbery Medal winner.

10. The Witch of Blackbird Pond by Elizabeth George Speare

When her grandmother dies and a much older man tries to force her into marriage, young Kit Tyler leaves her home in Barbados for New England. As she travels on a boat upriver through Connecticut, a child accidentally loses her favorite toy overboard, and Kit jumps into the water to save it. When the other passengers see her swimming so strongly, they begin to wonder if she is a witch.

Life in her new home is difficult: the weather is cold compared to her island home, Kit wants to teach girls to read and write but is prevented from doing so, her aunt and uncle’s family is not exactly welcoming and Kit fears the townspeople’s growing suspicions against her. During these hardships, Kit develops a deep friendship with Hannah, an outlawed Quaker. The story peaks when Kit is accused of being a witch when a practice book filled with the letters of a local child is found. This book is a tale of friendship, of love, of caring for others and of what it means to be strong and smart, even when people tell you that you can’t be.

This book contains four classic Edgar Allen Poe stories, all of which will scare you, make you wonder, and sometimes make you laugh: The Black Cat, the MAsque of the Red Death, Hop-Frog and The Fall of the House of Usher. My mom gave me this book for Halloween, but I’ve read it several times. In fact, I love to hear her read it out loud, as she makes things like a dead cat coming back to life at the exact moment that the police give up searching for the murdered woman the cat is hidden with seem believable…in a good way. Edgar Allen Poe was no Sherlock when it comes to smart murders, but he sure does make scary stories alot of fun. Another book full of scary, but great stories is Grimms Fairy Tales.

These books tell the story of Bright Path, better know as Jim Thorpe, the “Greatest Athlete in the World”. Most kids my age have heard of Jim Thorpe but don’t know the story of how he overcame a difficult life to become a champion athlete. Jim lost his twin brother to pneumonia and later, his mother as well. His father was killed in an accident. As a Native American, he was sent away to an Indian school where he couldn’t speak his language and where the white people tried to make him forget his Native traditions. Although Jim wanted to study electricity, he was recruited to attend a school in Pennsylvania, where he grew to love football, track and field, and many other sports. These two books tell Jim’s tale. Combined they tell a more complete story of Jim’s life before and after his trip to the Olympics, where he set longstanding records in track and field events. These books are great for younger readers as well.

I love poetry, and wish my school would spend more time learning about different styles of poems and why they are as important as books. I love to write poetry too. This book looks like its for little children–I received it as a gift when I was 5–but it is good four older kids too. The poems include classics by Robert Louis Stevenson, Emily Dickinson, Rudyard Kipling and others, as well as many haiku, nursery rhymes and more recent authors. The pictures of the animals are amazing. This books makes me want to read and write poetry every time I open it. My brother who is 9 loves it too.

These books follow Caden, eighth-born prince of Razzon, who has been waiting his entire life to finally slay a dragon. When he finally gets the chance, he is magically and mysteriously transported from his home to Asheville, North Carolina. Please see my note below about The Serafina Series. I think I really need to get to North Carolina soon.

These are some of my favorite books of all time. These stories follow Serafina, a young girl in North Carolina who lives in the basement of the Biltmore with her father. It turns out, Serafina is half catamount and has special powers. She uses these powers in the fight against evil. Serafina is truly the hero of all the people and creatures of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Once a year in the Protectorate there is a Day of Sacrifice. The youngest baby is taken by the Elders and left in the forest to die, thus appeasing the witch who threatens to destroy the village if not obeyed. Unbeknownst to the people, Xan, the witch of the forest, is kind and compassionate. When she discovers the first baby left as a sacrifice, she has no idea why it has been abandoned. She rescues the infants, feeds each one starlight, and delivers the shining infants to parents in the Outside Cities who love and care for them. On one occasion, Xan accidentally feeds a baby moonlight along with starlight, filling her with glowing magic. Xan is smitten with the beautiful baby girl, who has a crescent moon birthmark on her forehead, and chooses to raise her as her own child. Twists and turns emerge as the identity of the true evil witch becomes apparent. The swiftly paced, highly imaginative plot draws a myriad of threads together to form a web of characters, magic, and integrated lives. Spiritual overtones encompass much of the storytelling with love as the glue that holds it all together. VERDICT An expertly woven and enchanting offering for readers who love classic fairy tales.—D. Maria LaRocco

The little ones will splash in a shallow wading area with a covered wagon, mini-slides and water sprays, while the older kids can enjoy wilder features like a triple-lane waterslide or tubing flume. If you aren’t into the thrills, enjoy the lazy river, the poolside grill or mini golf (separate admission during peak season). Plenty of free parking, bathhouses, changing rooms and lockers. Very busy in the summer as this is close to Ocean City and Salisbury.

Owned by the town of Chesapeake Beach and connected to their community center, this water park is very popular. It is clean, there are many very alert lifeguards, and there is plenty of (crowded) fun for all ages.

My main complaint here is that no outside water, drinks or food of any kind are allowed, and yet their concession is truly horrible and unhealthy, with no alternatives other than small plastic water bottles, hamburgers and hotdogs, and no emphasis whatsoever on recycling all those bottles and trash, even though the facility is within steps of the Bay. It’s also tough to find even a drop of shade. But you could rent a tent/pavilion for about $60 if you want to guarantee a spot and have shade all day.

Older kids can stay up late for the evening swim and light show. Go in the afternoon for a discounted price. The park also offers lap swim in the mornings, and this is the ideal place to enjoy swimming with or against a current. Swim lessons also available.

You can get season passes, which are very reasonable, or day tickets. You can also find $14 ($7 off) children’s tickets through certifikid.

INSIDER TIP: If you use a prepaid groupon or certifikid coupon to enter the park, you have to stand in a separate line, which is to the left of the main entry. That line is usually much, much longer than the regular priced entry, so plan accordingly. The park opens at 11, and the line begins to form around 10:30.

The bustling shopping/dining/living suburban destination outside of DC gets a lot of foot traffic, so this fountain can be crowded or at least have a lot of onlookers. There is very little shade to be found, but there are some spots to sit on a bench-height wall.

There are innumerable eateries very close by. Discovery’s headquarters are about a block away (its lobby has a large dinosaur sculpture and other things for kids to see). A farmers market sets up Saturday mornings along the street right next to the fountain. If you are lucky enough to have a kid friendly movie selection at the time of your visit, be sure to visit the AFI Theater. We saw The Eagle Huntress there and the experience was fantastic. Reserve seats ahead of time and keep a little tummy room for movie treats, including some healthy options from Whole Foods Market (or an adult drink from the bar). Regal Theater is close by if you want a mass market movie, as are many restaurants, most chains like Lebanese Taverna and Eggcellence.

The fountain is on from spring through fall, and hours are 10am to 9pm.

North Arundel Aquatic Center, Glen Burnie, Anne Arundel County, MD
If you want to work off some energy, but don’t necessarily want to be outside, head to this small but inviting indoor water park just off Route 97. You won’t escape the humidity, but at least no one will be bored.

Little ones can zip down the toddler water slide, tip water buckets, splash in spouting fountains or play with the interactive built-in toys — all in a zero-entry wading pool reminiscent of Great Wolf Lodge. Older or taller kids can experience the large slide. There is a whirlpool here my kids could play in for hours, delighting in how the current pulls them round and round. There are also swim lanes and an outside area in summer. Special preschool swim times ensure a calm and kid-friendly experience and swim lessons are available. Children must be 3 or older and toilet-trained.

Insider Tip: This pool requires timed entry and you have to pay cash or check. While the timed entry is not convenient at all if you don’t schedule things just right, it means that the pool isn’t overly crowded. By this I do not mean that it won’t be crowded, especially on camp or rainy days, just that is will be reasonably crowded. Weekends are two-hour timed swims.

Other tip: this is a great place for a birthday or other party. In fact, I have rented the party space for casual playdates when I knew the weather would be gross but that my kids would want to get some water time in.

The Truxtun Park Municipal Swim Center is the only outdoor public pool in the City of Annapolis. No membership is required, though Season Passes are available for frequent users. A great place to swim laps or splash around with the whole family during the hot summer months. The Truxtun Park Pool also offers a wide variety of programs for swimmers of all ages and skill levels.

Age *2 and Under with paying adult = free
Youth** (ages 3-17) = $4
Adult (ages 18-61) = $5
Senior (ages 62+) = $4
Children not potty trained must wear a tight-fitting ecology suit over top of their swim diaper.
Children under 13 years old must be accompanied by a parent or guardian 18 years of age or older. No exceptions. Youth ages 13-17 must sign in with the name and phone of a parent/guardian lifeguards can contact in the event of an emergency.

This splash park has two levels of fun including spraying mushrooms and floating animals. Two waterslides empty into the shallow waters of a toddler pool — one for small inner tubes and another for traditional sliding. The main pool also has zero-depth entry. Older kids will love the large flume slide and aquatic adventure area with a lily pad crossing.

Lockers, changing rooms, shade, chairs and vending are on site, including a Rita’s Italian Ice.

This colorful indoor splash park is perfect for preschoolers. The children’s area has a playground with slides, tubes and bridges right in the center of the 1-foot deep pool. Interactive toys, sprays and dump buckets keep kids soaked while they play. The main pool also has a zero-depth entry along with a lily pad crossing and an indoor-outdoor tube slide for older kids.

The center has a splash pad and swim center for swimmers of all ages. Colorful pipes spray onto a padded outdoor deck, while overhead buckets dump water to keep kids cool. The outdoor splash pad is connected to an enormous indoor swim center with a zero-depth entry pool that has a retractable roof and walls for summer use.

There are lockers, vending machines and bathroom/changing rooms on site.

Note: For 2017 the sprayground is closed while the community center is renovated.

Cove Point Pool, Lusby, Calvert County, MDThis partially shaded toddler pool offers a zero-depth entry wading pool with spouting whale and fountains for splashing. Older siblings will enjoy the windy waterslides in the main pool. Concession stand is on-site with a playground nearby.

With a massive wave pool generating ocean-sized waves, a raft ride called “Tornado” that carries riders up to 35 feet per second, a 517-foot, high-speed inner tube slide, smaller-scale double slides and a lazy river, Six Flags America’s Upper Marlboro water park has water adventures for all ages. My kids would go here everyday if I could stand it (or afford it). Life vests are available for visitors under 48 inches tall or those who are not confident swimmers. And if you need a break from all the wet and wild fun, head over to the amusement park. Cabanas with tables, chairs, food and beverage service and tube rentals, for a fee, making this an awesome spot for a planned party.

INSIDER TIP: As with all other water parks, certain heights go on certain rides and if your kids are like mine, being too short can be a bummer worthy of a day-long pout. Be sure you are all well informed about who can go on what.

INSIDER TIP: this park is crowded. I dress my kids in neon shorts and shirts so I can spot them a little better, and I travel with another adult so we can pair off to stay with the kids at all times.

General admission $59.99. Guests under 48 inches are $39.99. Children ages 2 and under are free. You can sometimes find coupons or you can try for the official Summer 2017 discount, 40% off the regular price.

South Germantown Recreational Park Splash Playground, Germantown,Montgomery County, MD
The splash playground includes a 280-jet water maze, a cave with a waterfall, spraying animals, water-bucket drops and a slide. To make a day of your trip, check out the park’s 18-hole mini-golf course, adjacent to the splash playground. Children under 2 are free.

Walter Sondheim FountainaWest Shore Park, Inner Harbor, Baltimore, MDWhile there are many reasons to love Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, this fountain is at the top of our list. Located between the Maryland Science Center and Baltimore Visitor Center in West Shore Park, the fountain, is the perfect ending to a great day exploring all the Harbor offers.

Nearby tables and umbrellas can provide a break from activity if needed. In the summer, the fountain runs from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week. Go in the early morning for less traffic and you might have the fountain all to yourself. Then change in the bathrooms of the Science Center, Visitor Center or Aquarium and move on to other kinds of fun. Be sure to check out the acoustic park on the other end of the Harbor and maybe take a ferry ride over to Wit & Wisdom, one of our favorite restaurants in the area.

We reviewed this hotel here, and wrote extensively about it for GreenBook magazine. We love the Hyatt and highly recommend it. Two large outdoor pools, one with a small waterslide and fountain, are available for guests and slipholders, as is the indoor pool and hot tub.

Nearby Cambridge offers plenty of entertainment—their waterfront park is the perfect place to recover from a filling meal as you watch the sun go down. The area is surrounded by water so you shouldn’t have a hard time figuring out how to stay cool or at least get wet.

Another hidden gem, we think because staying here can be price prohibitive for some folks. It’s worth the splurge. We’ve written an in-depth piece about this property for GreenBook Magazine you should check out–it includes lots of our photos so you can get an idea of what’s there. Having been offered a gorgeous suite for that article, we are incredibly spoiled and look forward to a stay here sometime soon.

The large pool can accommodate a crowd, and the pool bar serves fantastic drinks. My kids were able to take a 1/2 hour that turned into 45 minutes swim lesson with a remarkable young lady who was really fantastic. There is a small fitness room next to the pool.

The property sits on Herring Bay and is a designated No Dump Zone. The family that owns the Inn and Marina is intent on environmental conservation. When you stay here (in the hotel or in a slip) you have free access to the beach, kayaks, beach gear and everything you might need to enjoy a day on the Bay.

From here you are within a few short miles of Chesapeake Beach, North Beach, Brownie Beach, Flag Pond Park, Chestnut Land Trust trails and Calvert Cliffs State Park, all previously mentioned on this site.

So this past winter I was diagnosed with skin cancer. This unfortunate turn of events means that I am hyper aware of sun protection. And the more I am aware of the sun, the hotter I get, and the more I want to lather up with some Hawaiian Tropic spf 5 oil like I did as a kid. The more I think about how I can’t be in the sun, I want to be on the beach, or on a boat, or laying out on the dock with a book for endless hours. This is what summer is made of.

The more I think about these things, the more I realize that the kids and I have visited dozens of cooling off spots that are pretty darn cool, places most folks don’t know about or don’t visit. So here is our comprehensive list. It’s long. Buckle Up. I do think there is much to learn here.

NOTE:

This list is not necessarily in order of preference (although subconsciously it might be).

This list does not list many places on the Bay. We tend to not get in the water too much around Sandy Point, one of the most polluted areas on the Bay, or Terrapin on Kent Island, both two popular beaches.

This list is a nod to the fact that much of Anne Arundel and Calvert counties have hundreds of miles of waterfront property, most of it privately owned and inaccessible. That makes us a little sad but has also made the challenge of visiting other cities and counties even more exciting.

This list doesn’t include Assateague, Rehoboth, Ocean City, Virginia Beach or other Atlantic beaches. That’s another post for another day.

Why this park is not mentioned more often we just don’t know. Maybe because it is off the main road? Sort of hidden? We aren’t sure, but we do know that it is so cool and costs just $4/day.

Follow a long, shady and just beautifully green road around Dans Mountain. At the end of this curling road, you will find an Olympic sized pool with a waterslide, big recycled tire playground, picnic pavilions, expansive green lawns and a fishing lake. Nearby Dan’s Rock Overlook affords a panoramic view of the surrounding region from a height of 2,898 feet.

Open 7 days per week, with a lifeguard, bathrooms and snack shack, Dan’s Mountain is about 3 hours from Annapolis and truly a world away. A perfect stop-off en route to Deep Creek Lake.

Maybe its because it is way down “deep in the county”, or maybe its because it is one of the most haunted places in America, but Point Lookout State Park is typically lightly traveled. Truth be told, the DNR website says it is very popular, and we haven’t been here during peak season, but even then the park is large enough that I can’t imagine it actually feeling crowded as in Ocean City or Miami Beach clustered.

I would definitely classify this as a Hidden Gem. The water here is beautiful, you have all the amenities of a State Park and you have the added bonus of an incredible history and the potential to see any sort of ghost sunbathing next to you. There is a pet beach, a lighthouse, a pier, camping facilities ( my kids are BEGGING me to stay here overnight but that is a NO GO), watercraft rentals and even a winery on the way in.

INSIDER TIP: mosquitoes galore, bring spray.

Other cool places in St. Mary’s County include St. Clement’s Island, Broome’s Island, St. Mary’s State Park (it has a great mountain bike trail and lake paddling), Myrtle Point Beach on the Patuxent River and Elms Beach on the Chesapeake Bay.

Hart-Miller Island is a Maryland State Park accessible only by personal boat. The closest launch is Rocky Point State Park.

Located at the mouth of Back and Middle Rivers, Rocky Point boasts an expansive view of the Chesapeake Bay, Hart-Miller Island and Craighill Light and one of the nicest beaches on the upper Chesapeake.

Information: (410) 592-2897

Mallows Bay in Charles County is definitely off the beaten path, unusual and well worth the trip.

Mallows Bay lies on the Maryland side of the Potomac River and is home to the largest shipwreck fleet in the western hemisphere. In fact, it is the first marine sanctuary in Maryland.

See how many different species of wildlife you can spot (print out the handy Charles County Water Trails pdf before you go) and imagine the ride across the Atlantic or through the bays and rivers of the Chesapeake in a ship as you glide over more than 200 mysterious remains.

If you want an authentic Chesapeake afternoon, head by bike, jetski, car or boat to one of our highly recommended favorites, Kentmorr Restaurant and Crabhouse. This in-the-know, mostly locals spot is over the Bay Bridge, down Route 8, on the right side of the road past the airfield.

Park in the small lot or pull right up to the marina, then head straight to the beach. Snag a hammock amidst the palms and read a book whilst watching your kids play on the beach. Take a break to head to the Tiki Bar or go into the restaurant for a fine meal. This is the ideal place to watch the sun set over the bay, with the Bay Bridge in the distance, over a big stack of crabs or some delicious local rockfish. Great burgers as well.

Fun at the base of the cross on the St. Mary’s River in historic St. Mary’s City with kayakers in the background. A great place for sailing!

Historic St. Mary’s City, St. Mary’s County, MD

When you are so hot and tired from exploring St. Mary’s City under the inevitably blistering southern Maryland sun, visit the quiet and absolutely stunning St. Mary’s River waterfront most people don’t even know exists. To access our favorite spot, the o to end of the cemetery next to Trinity Episcopal Church. Head downhill toward the river via dirt paths. Follow the water, exploring along the way, just a few yards, to the large wooden cross that looks out over a small bay, usually in use by students of St. Mary’s College. Here you will have several yards of shoreline to explore, as well as a tidal stream and wetlands.

Flag Pond, Brownie Beach and Calvert Cliffs, Calvert County, MD

These three parks all take advantage of a sandy beach and shallow wading. All are famous for family fun, including sunbathing, swimming and all sizes of shark teeth. Flag Ponds Nature Park and Calvert Cliffs State Park offer a remarkable variety of natural environments—from sandy beach, to freshwater ponds, to wetland swamp to the forested heights of Calvert Cliffs. We go here at least once a month April-November. We especially like to go after big storms, when we hope that shark teeth and other fossils have been exposed.

Flag Pond includes a short, half-mile hike from the parking lot brings you to the sandy beach where there is swimming and fossil hunting. A bathhouse is available. There are also observation platforms at two ponds, a fishing pier on the Chesapeake Bay and a visitor’s center with wildlife displays.

Calvert Cliffs has a longer hike down a sandy, mostly flat trail to a wide and narrow sandy beach where there is swimming and a small freshwater streamlet to play in. There are bathrooms (portapotties) near the beach and at the parking lot. There is a large playground at the parking lot. Many people overlook the fact that there are many other trails in the beautiful little park.

Brownie Beach a/k/a Bayfront Park about a mile outside of Chesapeake Beach has a short walk down a paved trail from the parking lot to the beach. There is a freshwater stream, a shallow beach that extends far out into the water and a wide stretch of sand under the shadow of the cliffs where fossils are abundant. No bathrooms and tight parking—you may have to park along the road opposite the park entrance.

IMPORTANT TIP: In each of these parks, it is very important to not attempt to climb on the cliffs, to always be aware of the cliffs above or behind you and to obey park rules. The cliffs are known to slide after storms and you don’t want to be seriously injured when you could be enjoying a day at the beach. There is a cost for each of these parks (Flag Pond and Brownie Beach in season, Calvert Cliffs year round). Also beware jellyfish and other water creatures.

Brownie’s is open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Entrance fees for out-of-Calvert-County residents are $16 for those ages 12 to 54; $9 for children ages 3 to 11, seniors and active military; free for children 2 and under. Entry is free for North Beach residents and discounted for Calvert County residents. More info: 410-257-2230,410-586-1477. or Chesapeake-beach.md.us and calvertparks.org/fpp.html

This is not our favorite beach, mostly because it’s blazing hot with not an ounce of shade, it’s occasionally dirty, the water isn’t especially clean and there is a fee for parking, for getting onto the beach and for anything you don’t bring (ie chairs, etc). On the other hand, those fees support the city of North Beach, a tiny enclave on the Anne Arundel County/Calvert County line. There is a long pier here with fishing and some vendors, a great farmer’s market on scheduled days and some fun events like car shows and outdoor movies.

One of our most favoritest places to cool off is Cascade Falls, a series of small falls easily accessible along the 2-mile Cascade Falls trail and close to the parking lot, bathrooms, picnic area and playground. Enter through the Orange Grove/Avalon area.

Children can hike up the river (not up to 48 hours after a rain storm due to water pollution) to the main falls, which have a shallow pool and a “beach”- which is really a landing area for shoes and backpacks and rocks to climb on. There is plenty of shade along the entire walk.

Because your kids are having endless amounts of water play, the hardest part of this excursion is getting your kids to go back down the trail for home.

Everyone has their favorite spot along the trail: ours is a small outcrop of rock that has formed an interesting geological bend in the stream as well as some shade and that makes for great shallow waterplay with rocks, sticks and everything you need for a manmade dam.

The beauty of Cunningham Falls is that you can go at any time before noon and still be home in time for dinner. Also, my kids love the giant boulders and fairy-town ferns that characterize the trail from the lake to the falls.

The William Houck Area has a lake, a trail to the falls and camping. Swimming is allowed in three designated areas of Hunting Creek Lake that have sandy beaches, but swimming is not allowed at the falls (you can wade and you can climb, but the falls are extremely shallow and slippery so caution is advised). Arrive early as the park often reaches capacity by mid- to late-morning on weekends and holidays, and visitors can be turned away.

INSIDER’S TIP: it is not unusual to see copperhead snakes in this area. Naturally shy, they will generally stay away if you leave them alone. Walk with a stick and make plenty of noise, or hike after early morning when the snakes know that people will be on the trail. Stay on the trail as the snakes like to hide in the leaves and brush.

Lifeguards on duty at the lake daily, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Memorial Day to Labor Day. Admission: $3 per person during the week, $5 on weekends and holidays, Memorial Day to Labor Day. 301-271-7574

Everyone knows about Deep Creek Lake, the largest, deepest and maybe coldest lake in Maryland. You can do just about everything here, from boating to jet skiing, fishing, SUP, and everything in between.

We like the state park beach because it is a one-mile stretch of sandy, well maintained, clean sand with bathrooms and is close to nearby restaurants, gas and convenience stores.

You can rent kayaks if you get bored of swimming, or launch your own watercraft. The state park nature center is unsurpassed for hands on education about the area.

There are many places to cool off in Shenandoah National Park, but we are especially partial to the Rose River Loop Trail. We’ve hiked it four times in the past 6 months.

Park at Fischers Gap, cross Skyline Drive and walk the fire road down to Dark Hollow Falls. Take the Rose River trail to your left. This trail is rated as easy, and is very doable by young kids; however, keep in mind that it is rocky with roots and slippery portions.

Rose River Loop Trail, Shenandoah National Park

INSIDER TIP: To be honest, having taken my 70 year old mom on this trail, a walking stick or hiking poles would be a good idea if you have balance or endurance issues.

Your pay off is more than a mile of small falls, pools and shade. Plan to stop every few yards to let your kids explore. Trout fishing is great along this stretch of the river and if you see a fisherman, be sure to give them room and courtesy (esp. if you are upstream). Follow the trail down and over the small bridge, where you start to gain elevation.

About ½ mile up from that turn, Rose River Falls will be on your right. This is a gorgeous waterfall with a deep pool. It’s icy cold and very refreshing. It empties into a smaller, shallow pool, then cascades over another falls. Afterward, you should be just refreshed enough to hike up the remaining mile or so to the car, a walk that is all uphill but much smoother than fire road entrance.

This is a 3.7 mile trail that takes us at least three hours because we are constantly stopping to explore. Again, great for young kids and even my 70 year old mom, but not necessarily easy.

INSIDER TIP: If you want a falls that you can get playtime in AND want a short but pretty hike with easy in and out, just do Rose River Falls. The entrance is clearly marked where the Fire Road intersects with Skyline Drive, on your left as you reach the yellow gate that blocks cars from going on the fire road.

CAUTION: we have seen and heard bears on this trail and all over Shenandoah NP. In fact, this area has the highest concentration of bears on the east coast. Stay away, do not feed the bears, do not try to approach the bears. They are wild animals and no matter how cute, they are not your friend. If you need to hug a bear, go visit the lovely guy in the lobby of Big Meadows Lodge.

The pocket parks in Annapolis, open to the public and located at the end of quiet residential streets in Eastport, Murray Hill and West Annapolis, are nearly always empty, leaving us to call them Hidden Gems that you should definitely plan to visit.

There’s not much better than letting your kids play in the Eastport park, a sandy beach located at the end of Chesapeake Ave. at Horn Point. Navy Station Annapolis with the tall towers of Greenbury Point is across the water and the Bay Bridge is in the distance.

Other parks, including Amos Garrett, Jonas Green, Tucker Street launch and Truxton Park all offer free water fun and are great for just a picnic, some outside play, fishing, crabbing or launching a kayak, canoe or SUP.

This park features a 300-foot beach, swimming area, bathhouse with a first-aid station, fishing pier, pavilions, shaded picnic groves and playground. Lifeguards patrol the area from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. through Labor Day. Group or individual sailing lessons are also available at the park through the Baltimore County Sailing Center. Park closes at sunset.

Old-timers and locals complain that this swimming hole gets smaller and smaller and not nearly as adventurous, but Beaver Dam Swimming Club remains one of the most popular swimming holes in the state. The flooded marble quarry averages 40 feet deep, and is surrounded by rocks, trees and grass, making it feel very natural and a world away from nearby Baltimore and surrounding suburbs. Be sure to check out the rope swing — a favorite for generations of thrill seekers. Basketball and volleyball courts are also on site, as are picnic tables and grills. Two pools are also available.

$15 for ages 12 and older on weekdays, $16 on Saturdays and $17 on Sundays and holidays. Always $12 for children age 11 and under or 410-785-2323

Cascade Lake, Carroll County, MDThe 6-acre, spring-fed lake in Carroll County includes a roped-off swimming area, a 150-foot waterslide and platforms. Nearby the “spray ’n playground” provides geysers, bubblers and water tunnels for little ones, nonswimmers and those who just want a break from the lake.

In the lake, swimmers between 8 and 21 years old must pass a swim test to go beyond the 5-foot depth markers. Picnic tables and grills are scattered across the property, and paddleboats are available for a fee. A vendor/cafe sells burgers, sandwiches and snacks.

$15 for adults and children over age 7 and $12 for children ages 1 to 7 on weekends and holidays. On weekdays before 2 p.m., admission costs $10 and $8, respectively. Infants are free.

Best known for having the tallest waterfall in the park, at 93 feet, this stream is usually a trickle in summer months. Still, the flow is enough to fill a series of three interconnected swimming holes two miles downstream—one pool can get more than seven feet deep. The creek runs over a smooth, sloping rock wall that works as a fantastic water slide. The sun-filled area is a popular spot—especially with local teenagers trying to beat the heat. Even in August the water can be surprising and refreshingly chilly.

The swimming holes are reached via a long (8.5-mile), moderately difficult loop hike through the park, on the Overall Run/Beecher Ridge trail or on a moderate one-mile hike from a parking area on Thompson Hollow Road.

In a town called Poolesville, there has to be a swimming hole, right? There is. On River Road in Maryland, a hundred feet west of its intersection with Seneca Road, Seneca Creek passes under a bridge where a natural, shaded hollow makes for a delightful and secluded spot to take a dip. Though shallow, the stream includes large, flat rocks that let you sit or lay in the cool, clear flowing water.

No need to hike to this swimming hole—you can park at the lot for the Farm & Home Service store, walk across a grassy area (where there are picnic tables), and you’re at the creek. If you want to float in the creek, bring some rope and tie your “floatie” to a tree so you don’t drift away. There are some nice cafes en route, so you can pack a picnic or buy some treats along the way.

Passage Creek in Virginia’s George Washington National Forest offers several spots for water lovers to play. The most popular swimming hole is next to the Elizabeth Furnace campground, but it can be quite busy on weekends. Less crowded is the Blue Hole. Take Route 55 west from Front Royal for five miles and then turn south onto Fort Valley Road. After a couple of miles, park in the small parking area next to the creek. Be sure to wear water shoes or old sneakers because the riverbank and bottom are rocky.

The best of the park’s swimming holes, Buzzard Rock Hole, is directly below Buzzard Rock cliffs—a popular rock-climbing and hiking area. It’s only another quarter-mile south on Fort Valley Road, then a short walk from a paved lot. This deep hole is bounded on one side by a sun-drenched, sloping rock face. After a dip, you can lie out on the rock to dry off and catch some rays, just like you did when you were a kid. Bring a cooler, maybe some coolers (which are haute again) and settle back for old-fashioned fun.

Gunpowder Falls S.P. is comprised of several separate parks where you can access the Gunpowder Falls River. The Hereford area is up I-83 north of Baltimore. It includes several river access points and trails, most with decent if not shallow swimming places. Try Guyton Road and Hammerman Beach. People love to float on this river, but you need to plan how you will get back to your origination. Bring life jackets if you plan to float, or rig an anchor for your floaty and drift the day away.

The small riverfront beach and the prospect of swimming in the cool Gunpowder River makes this destination (about 1-1.5 hours from Annapolis) a popular spot. There are lifeguards, grills, bathrooms and picnic areas. A cafe offers a typical food for reasonable rates. The recycled tire playground is a favorite spot for hide and seek and other classic outdoor games. Arrive early to ensure entry, especially on the weekends. Hours are 8 a.m. to sunset through October. Admission for Maryland residents is $5 per person on weekends and holidays and $3 on weekdays. Children in car seats are admitted free.

INSIDER TIP: Arrive early to ensure entry, especially on the weekends. This place is very popular with folks in the Baltimore, Carroll, Hartford and Howard County areas.

Hours are 8 a.m. to sunset through October. Admission for Maryland residents is $5 per person on weekends and holidays and $3 on weekdays. Children in car seats are admitted free. More info: 410-592-2897.

Just 1.5 or so hours from Annapolis, Harper’s Ferry is such a wonderful little town—its run-down, haunted atmosphere is exactly what you might expected of a town so characterized by events that have happened here, from the start of the Lewis & Clark expedition to John Brown’s raid, to the many horrific Civil War battles that happened nearby, to its location on the C & O Canal and the juxtaposition of the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers. Just 286 people lived here on the 2010 census, but in the summer you wouldn’t know it.

One of our favorite things to do after hiking Maryland Heights or the AT, or after exploring the expansive parkland and historic buildings in the National Park, is to rent tubes from Harper’s Ferry Adventure Company. They have everything you need, including life jackets and a shuttle back upriver. They also have a zipline and white water rafting. There are many companies in the area that cater to people trying to cool off in the river, so I suggest you Google for reviews and Groupons.

INSIDER TIP: There are concerns about significant agricultural run off and other pollution in this area, so you may want to avoid after heavy rainfall.

There are two waterfalls in Swallow Creek State Park; Swallow Falls (on the Yough. River) and Muddy Creek Falls (on Muddy Creek). There are several very fine swimming holes just below each falls and more in the creek and river downstream of each falls.

Do not be tempted to leap from the falls at Swallow Falls, where you might see youngsters proving their mettle this way. It is extremely dangerous and people have died doing so. Enjoy the water, be reasonably cautious and respect Mother Nature.

Insider Tip: to access Swallow Falls, you take a lovely little trail from the parking lot. Continue along this trail and you will find a quiet and stunningly beautiful small falls that has created a shallow pool perfect for young families. If no one else is there you might think you have discovered your own piece of mountain paradise.

Insider Tip: There is a playground at this State Park on a grassy knoll that is a great way to start or end the day. Nearby is Herrington Manor State Park, which offers cabin and tent camping as well as a manmade lake and a lovely short hike. Lots of goose poop, but a lifeguard and tranquil views.

Rocks State Park, Hartford County, MD
We’ve mentioned Rocks State Park on other posts, so you must know that we love it. In the fall you can’t beat the view from the King & Queen Seat, playing in the leaves or the adorable and creative playground. But in the summer you can take advantage of the beautiful park areas along Deer Creek. This shallow stream is perfect for picnicking, wading, fishing, swimming and tubing! Reports say there are 3 1/2 miles of tubing, but we haven’t only gone as far as we can walk back. Deer Creek is unsupported—no lifeguards, bathrooms or vendors. There is a class 3 rapid that most people walk around rather than tube and several swimming holes, 10′ – 12′ deep, reachable by tube or from parking lots at picnic areas along the creek.

Maryland’s second highest free-falling waterfall, Kilgore Falls was once a meeting spot for Susquehannock Indians. This land was privately owned until the early 1990s but is now open to the public. Situated down the road from the State Park HQ in gorgeous farmland, the falls are located in the Falling Branch area of Rocks State Park. There is a quick, easy hike in from the (usually crowded) parking lot.

Insider Tip: Arrive early. Difficult to understate how this place is much loved. Even so, it is well worth a visit, especially when the falls are running high in early summer. Bring water shoes to better navigate the rocky bottom of the stream.

A 42-acre, man-made lake located about 3 hours away in the Appalachian Mountains offers swimming, sunbathing, boating, fishing, camping, boat rentals, flat water canoeing, hiking trails, picnic area and a playground area. This is not our favorite spot because the bottom of the lake is a little muddy and the goose poop can be excessive, but once you are in and having fun these things don’t seem to matter as much.

Lifeguards on duty 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Memorial Day to Labor Day.

Admission: Weekdays, $3 per person; weekends/holidays, $5 per person Memorial Day to Labor Day weekends. Out-of-state residents add $2 to all day use service charges. 301-791-4767

Elk Neck State Park is located in Cecil County on a peninsula, formed by the Chesapeake Bay on the west and the Elk River on the east. The park boasts over 2,188 acres of varied landscapes including marshlands, heavily wooded areas, white clay cliffs, and sandy shorelines. Camping, swimming, fishing, boating, and hiking, are popular pastimes. Visit Turkey Point Lighthouse, launch your own boat at the Rogues Harbor Boat Launch facility and make sure to take a walk on any of the many trails.

With a half-mile of bay-front sandy shore and a netted swimming area, plenty of space for sandcastles and shark-tooth hunting as well as a playground and picnic area, the park is a definite kid-pleaser. There is a 200-foot pier for fishing and crabbing, a camping area, charcoal grills, restrooms and showers perfect for cleaning off before piling back into the car.

INSIDER TIP: water shoes recommended. Entry to the park is cash only.

Open 6 a.m. to dusk. Admission is $10 on weekends and $6 on weekdays for adults; $6 on weekends and $4 on weekdays for children ages 3 to 11 and for seniors. Those age 2 and under are admitted free. More info: 410-535-0259

When I first meet Shannon Reisenfeld, mom of four children at Arnold Elementary, local and international activist and new business owner, it is at Bean Rush Cafe in West Annapolis. Although it is just 9:00 in the morning, like me she has already been up for several hours, brought her kids to school and crossed several items off her To-Do list. I know I am an item on that list, so I try to keep my curiosity about her story at bay, a task that’s nearly impossible largely because Shannon’s path to realizing innovative and profitable philanthropy through her new Fair Trade wholesale/retail company Mango + Main is both intriguing and brave.

“There is such a need to help these entrepreneurs who just want to work and to provide for their families. I formed Mango + Main in an effort to create more work and to open new markets to producers.”

Shannon launched Mango + Main in September 2016 and the response so far has been overwhelmingly positive. The business sells goods via an online shop as well as through area retailers like Here A Pop Up Shop, mobile fashion truck Tin Lizzie and Twisted Sisters. Her current assortments include skirts sewn with fabric personally curated by Shannon and made by a cooperative of artists in Rwanda, striped cotton hand towels made in Ethiopia of Egyptian cotton, one-of-a-kind textile and baby alpaca pillow covers from Peru, scented candles poured into hand-painted bowls from South Africa, paper jewelry made in Haiti as well as handbags, wallets and other goods made by women in Senegal and Kenya.

She’s facilitated manufacture of custom designs for her local clients and frequently hosts area fundraisers through the sale of Mango + Main products. When she sold blue and white necklaces for an Arnold Elementary PTA spirit wear fundraiser, she created jobs for women in Haiti who support a local orphanage. The home isn’t for children who don’t have parents, but rather for children sent there by parents who aren’t able to provide for them. “These women are making jewelry so they can feed their children, so they can send them to school and not have to give them up. They can make any color, any style and I helped facilitate that while also rallying our kids around a great product and idea”.

“I have these artisans who are asking for work and I am helping them design products that will appeal to the Western woman. I help them choose colors and styles that will sell well here in the West. If you come to me and say I need 50 pink bracelets for a girls running club, I can get these for you and the artisans will rejoice and be so happy to get that order.”

At this point, Mango + Main operates out of Shannon’s dining room. “This is all new to me,” Shannon says, “but I feel like I am building a business for other people. It’s not so I can grow in wealth. I know people are counting on me, literally to put food in their mouth.” She’s had to learn how to build a website, modify HTML code, create her own marketing materials on a nonexistent budget, familiarize herself with tariff schedule codes and has spent hours learning about customs. In the space of just a few months, business is doing well and Shannon says she has faith that Mango + Main will prosper. “I‘ve been able to earn back my initial investment so I can break even and have money to invest for the next season. My goal was to tell my husband we don’t have to pull any more money out of savings and that’s where I am at.”

Final Thoughts

In a world where most of what we use on a daily basis is sterile, mass-produced and utterly disposable, fair trade goods are hand-crafted with locally sourced materials such as straw, leather, fabric, paper and even recycled plastic. The sale and purchase of fair trade items –fair in that workers are paid a just wage for their work and a just price for what they produce—empowers producers to change their own lives.

“When I was able to see the impact that I could have on the everyday lives of the women I met—their ability to feed their family, to educate their children, to earn some sort of security in a very insecure world just by selling the bowls they made, I knew I wanted to create solutions that could change their lives.”

Shannon is building her business on good will. On our basic human desire to express compassion, to make a difference. As I listen to Shannon I can’t help but think that we in the West are naturally generous but also cautious with our prosperity. We have money but we want to know where it will go and what impact it will have. Mango + Main is a thoughtfully founded business that helps make a difference by creating opportunity not only here at home for entrepreneurs like Shannon and her local retailers, but also abroad where there is a valid argument that it is needed most. Shannon is right when she says that Mango + Main in particular, and Fair Trade goods in general support local businesses, in a way that makes your money, and your goodwill, go global.

*******

This article was originally posted in GreenBook magazine, a publication of YellowFin Marketing. Click on the link to read more and to view more photos of Shannon and her goods. To learn more about Shannon and Mango + Main, visit her website. Note that she can arrange for free local delivery and is looking forward to doing more fundraising and wholesale projects as her business grows.

Paper Source debuted a Giving Plate this year. The plate matches a variety of accessories also available a the shop in Annapolis.

Paper Source, a stationary and gift shop located at Annapolis Towne Center, recently debuted a “Giving Plate” ($39.95). The idea is to gift the plate (preferably laden with tasty treats), in hopes that your recipient will pay it forward to someone else. In theory, your gift could touch dozens of people as the plate makes its rounds through families and friends. It makes a perfect hostess, teacher or cookie exchange gift, and makes a sincere statement on “the Reason for the Season.”

While purchasing the Giving Plate at Paper Source might be quick and convenient, we like the idea of personalizing something similar at Clay Bakers in Annapolis or Easton or Pottery at South River Colony in Edgewater. Plan in advance: your art might require a week or more for firing in the kiln.

Fill your plate with a variety of sweet and savory treats. Try one of the following recipes—all from local cooks.

Greek Kourabiethes

A small, light and buttery cookie dusted with powder sugar

From chef, trainer and woman extraordinaire Frances Vavloukis

Ingredients:

1 lb. sweet butter

½ cup powdered sugar

1 egg yolk

1 TB brandy (optional)

1 tsp. vanilla

4-5 cups flour, sifted

½ cup walnuts

1 packaged powdered sugar

Method:

Cream butter. Add sugar, beat until light and fluffy

Add egg yolk and beat thoroughly. Add vanilla and walnuts (if using)

Add flour, a little at a time, until dough is soft and pliable.

Form into little crescents or balls.

Place on an ungreased cookie sheet about 1” apart

Bake at 350 for 20 minutes or until lightly browned

Spread newspaper or brown paper on the counter top. Cover the paper with waxed paper. Spread a little powdered sugar over the surface.

Remove cookies from oven and immediately move to the wax paper. Immediately sift powdered sugar over until each cookie is covered completely

Let cookies cool completely.

Serve in cupcake papers

Italian pizzelles

You will need a pizzelle griddle or iron for this recipe, available at Sur la Table, Williams Sonoma, Target From the Larry Olmo Family

and online.

Ingredients:

½ cup butter

½ cup sugar

3 eggs

1 cup flour

1 to 2 tablespoons of anise or fennel seed

Method:

Melt butter, stir in sugar, add eggs then flour and anise or fennel seed and blend until batter is smooth.

Heat the pizzelle iron, and brush with oil. Drop about one tablespoon of batter onto each circle on the iron. You may need to experiment with the amount of batter and baking time depending on the iron.

Bake for 20 to 45 seconds, or until steam is no longer coming out of the iron. Carefully remove cookies from the iron.

Cool completely before storing in an airtight container. Sprinkle with confectioner’s sugar if desired.

Rocky Road Cookies

A sweet and fun treat from the fabulous book Sweet Envy by Seton Rossini. Including the book with your Giving Plate would be the pièce de résistance!

Ingredients:

Makes 12 cookies

2 1⁄2 cups confectioners’ sugar

1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1⁄4 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon instant espresso powder

3 egg whites (slightly less than 1⁄2 cup)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

3⁄4 cup semisweet chocolate chips

3⁄4 cup chopped walnuts

6 large marshmallows, cut in half with kitchen scissors

Method:

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with liners or parchment paper.

In a large bowl, whisk or sift together the confectioners’ sugar, cocoa, salt and espresso powder.

Mix in the egg whites and vanilla until smooth and no lumps remain. Add the chocolate chips and walnuts, stirring until fully incorporated and dough is gooey.

Use a cookie scoop to drop round balls of dough on the baking sheets. Leave about 2 inches between cookies. Press a marshmallow half firmly into the top of each dough ball.

Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the marshmallows are nice and toasty on top. The cookies will look shiny and cracked. Cool slightly before eating.

Chocolate Heaven in a Cookie

A flour-free, gluten-free treat that is a favorite of everyone here at FFF.

Mix the cocoa powder, sugar, salt and walnuts together for about a minute in a stand mixer set on stir. Add the egg whites and vanilla, set the mixer to medium and mix for 2-3 minutes or until completely combined and glossy.

Scoop onto a parchment lined cookie sheet.

Bake at 350° for 10 minutes, or in a convection oven at 340° for 11 minutes.

So-o-o-….it’s been awhile. I have been writing like mad forGreenBook, (GO ON! go give it a LIKE for me!) and will talk all about that ASAP. Right now I am thinking about a conversation I recently had with someone I’ve only spoken to over the phone.

In this phone call, I mentioned an article I recently wrote for Capital Gazette newspapers. It covered Family Friendly Dining. Originally inspired by a “Best Of” list I saw in a large regional paper that listed only 1 ONE!!! place in a 40 mile radius of where I live, I was motivated to write it because I wanted to showcase all the really wonderful places the kids and I go, not a single one of which is a chain, and very, very few of which are those sorts of places so devoid of creativity and any connection at all to a childhood palate that the line cook is forced to turn out PB&J with carrots as the Main course on the “kids menu”, or grilled cheese on the Specials day.

Let me say it here: I am so over the “Kids Menu”.

Get rid of it!!! Out! Gone! Boring! Terrible nutritionally! Gross! Cheap! Panders to the kids! Dumbs food down to the lowest denomination. Patronizes children’s ability to be flexible, creative, healthy, good eaters! D.O.N.E!

Well, this person I was speaking to vehemently disagreed with me. They LOVE the one place I didn’t include. They think it is so cool kids can write on the walls and that hot dogs are a hot item on the menu there. They are one of those people more than a little irritated when they hear babies crying, toddlers tantruming or kids fighting in a restaurant.

But guess what folks:we all acted like that at some time in our lives, and our parents made us get over it. Eventually, we all have to learn how to behave at the table, whether that is at home or in a restaurant. I am not going to sacrifice my taste buds and my desire for a decent meal to my children’s poor behavior. Full stop.

Here’s the fact of the matter: I am not going to pay good money to stuff my kids full of unhealthy, gross shit that would cost me a fraction of the price to serve them at home.

Anyway, The Capital asked me to come up with 10 area restaurants that I thought were great for family dining. You can see them here.

But 10 is an impossibly short list. Here are a few others I had in mind.

Wild Country Seafood, Eastport (Best fresh seafood right off the boat and wonderful place to picnic)

Adams Ribs, (now Adams TapHouse & Grill) Severna Park, Eastport and Prince Frederick. BBQ. Man that stuff is so good, so filling, and I love the way that place SMELLS! The Kent Island location is too sterile for me. I like the old school Prince Frederick location best.

Saigon Palace, Edgewater (Vietnamese)

Iron Rooster, City Dock. I haven’t had a sip of the Iron Rooster KoolAid everyone seems to be drinking. My kids go here and still want the pancake and bacon. And it really bothers me that they don’t serve homemade jam!! They have those horrible little packets on the table. I want a crock of homemade butter (maybe even a honey butter for my pancakes too), I want some fresh jam from local berries, maybe in an old fashioned glass jar, and I want some real maple syrup. Not too hard folks! BUT, if you are a family that wants the basics without the mess at home, Iron Rooster is THE place to go. Try the tacos. Not bad!!! I also won’t pass up the biscuits and fried chicken with raspberry jam….

Iron Rooster breakfast tacos.

Kabob House, Edgewater (oh lo-o-o-o-rd. Love it. Sometimes I buy the simple kebabs and fancy them up at home alongside a nice rice pilaf and a quick salad of cucumber and tomato. Super quick and easy weeknight dinner.)

Royal Karma, off Riva Road. Relatively new Indian restaurant with a great buffet

Lima Chicken, off West Street and Chinquapin Round Road. As close to Peru as I am going to get any day soon. Definitely NOT the same, but at least the chicken is juicy, the plantains are sweet and the yucca fries are tasty. Try the spicy side sauce. I could drink that stuff!

Bella Italia, Friendship and West Annapolis locations. This food isn’t different than anywhere else, frankly, but they are just so nice and so accommodating. My daughter once accidentally tipped over a table so they cleaned it up and gave her a piece of molten chocolate cake she has never forgotten. RESTAURANT MANAGERS: its this kind of thing that gets families coming back to you over and over!!!

There are so, so many other great places that are casual enough to bring the kiddos but good enough you don’t mind forking over the cash, but I am not Yelp.

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Meet Diana

I live on the East Coast, but I am a West Coast girl at heart! My family is full of crazy, wild women who live life to the fullest, and I am proud to follow in their footsteps. Did I mention I love to travel? We never sit for too long and are eager to share with you all we know about our adventures. We are always on the hunt for cool, hip artisans and entrepreneurs who like to share their fresh, local ideas and products. Join me to forage for a more flavorful life! Read More…

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A little reminder about the photos on this site: unless noted, they are mine. They are copyrighted. As in you don't have the right to copy them without my written permission. Not to be stingy, just hoping you will ask first. Playground rules and all....